Synopsis- When Allie moves to a quaint old cottage with her husband, it’s their dream home. Nestled in the village of Pluckley, it seems a perfect haven in which to raise their two children. But Pluckley has a reputation. It’s known as England’s most haunted village. And not long after the birth of their new son, Allie begins to notice strange things…
Author- Lisa Hall
Genre- Thriller | Horror | Mystery
Released- 2021
Lisa Hall’s “The Woman in the Woods” delivers a gripping narrative woven with mystery and suspense, but falls short of offering a truly unique experience. Set against the backdrop of a small, secluded town, the story follows protagonist Allie as she deals with a range of topical issues, including mental health struggles and the stresses of motherhood and potential supernatural encounters that only she seems to be encountering.
One of the stories strengths lies in its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Hall masterfully builds tension throughout the narrative, employing twists and turns that leave the audience guessing until the very end. The atmospheric setting adds to the sense of unease, effectively immersing readers in the eerie world of the story.
Additionally, the characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, with each harbouring their own secrets and motivations. Allie, in particular, is a compelling protagonist whose internal struggles means you’re never sure if she is a reliable narrator or not. The dynamics between the various characters are believable and add layers of complexity to the story. This is especially true when it comes to Allie and her husband Rav.
However, despite these strengths, “The Woman in the Woods” ultimately suffers from a lack of originality. The plot treads familiar ground, following a formula that will feel all too familiar to seasoned readers of the horror/mystery genre. While there are certainly surprises along the way, they often feel like variations on themes that have been explored in countless other novels and those of us who are used to the horror genre might be able to guess where the plot is going before the story gets there.
Furthermore, some readers may find certain aspects of the story predictable, diminishing the impact of the plot twists. While Hall attempts to subvert expectations, these moments often fall flat, failing to deliver the intended shock value.
In conclusion, “The Woman in the Woods” is a solid entry in the mystery genre, offering a thrilling ride for those seeking a suspenseful read. However, its lack of originality may leave some readers wanting more. Despite this, fans of the genre will likely find enjoyment in Hall’s skilful storytelling and expertly crafted suspense.
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